From there, a dream took form. Pauline began her professional journey from her dining table—armed with a phone book, a pack of business cards, and an unshakable belief in the power of art. Having started as a passionate art collector, and a background in HR and luxury retail management, she quickly transitioned into a freelance art consultancy, matching emerging and established artists with clients & projects across New Zealand.
As the galleries evolved, so too did its reputation
Artbay’s first gallery space opened in the Mountaineer building, with a cutting edge New York inspired gallery design, with white washed brick & bespoke hanging walls. The next move was down to the waterfront location, where Artbay undertook the major development of Masonic lodge, and transformed it into the boutique Art Space it is today. Within this space, Artbay Gallery houses a unique, vibrant and ever-changing collection of New Zealand and International contemporary art, by award winning artists. The gallery has been a beacon for art lovers and art aficionados worldwide, and have stood out from the crowd with their eclectic collection, offering a friendly and welcoming gallery environment, where people come to be inspired, to admire, connect, engage, and be moved by art.
“Art does change your life, and makes your house a home” say’s founder Pauline Bianchi
"Our Artbay artists are carefully selected not only for their exceptional talent, but for the unique voices and stories they bring to their work. Each artist offers something deeply original—often working with earthy textures, natural materials, and layered iconography that reflect the spirit and landscape of Aotearoa, and beyond. Their art is grounded, authentic, and timeless—woven with meaning and rooted in a deep connection to place."
It’s been a joy and a privilege to walk alongside many of them for over 15 years—witnessing their evolution, nurturing friendships, and sharing in the quiet magic of creating something lasting together”
Fast forward 10 years, after a number of successful pop ups, both in Auckland and Sydney, two new gallery brands, Lightworx & VIRUT Gallery, were born.
It was during the first lockdown Lightworx Galleries emerged.
A concept that came out of a desire to create something fresh, new, innovative and uplifting to offer the Art Industry & Collectors– The idea to create dedicated gallery spaces to show Lightworx – Fine art powered by light, by some of world’s top Light artists, such as Sir Robert Jahnke, Max Patté, and Nagy Molnár.
The Virut Flagship Gallery was created to honour one of Artbay’s most celebrated international artists, Virut Panichabuse.
Virut has emerged as a standout figure in the contemporary art world through his innovative, hand-layered collage portraits—transforming thousands of tiny magazine clippings into powerful pop art. From afar, his works feel hyper-real; up close, they reveal vivid mosaics rich with emotion. With a global following, Virut has become a true star of contemporary portraiture—his art transcending language, culture, and border to speak straight to the soul.
20 years on, all in prime positions on the Queenstown waterfront, you’ll find Artbay Gallery Group operating 3 galleries, Artbay Gallery, Lightworx Gallery and, the Global Flagship, VIRUT Gallery
For over two decades, we've shared bold beginnings, proud milestones, nurtured lasting partnerships & collaborated with major institutions. We’ve also faced the inevitable challenges that come with life in the arts: shifting markets, complex logistics, and the unexpected setbacks of Covid & 2 global recessions.
At the heart of it all are our artists—the true soul of our story. Their dedication and masterpieces have shaped not only our spaces but our identity. Alongside them are our passionate gallery team and loyal collectors—many of whom have journeyed with us from the very beginning, and have made Artbay more than a gallery. They’ve made it a community—one that locals and visitors alike are drawn to, knowing they’ll discover something truly inspiring every time.
As we mark 20 years, we honour the journey—with gratitude for the past, pride in the present, and excitement for what’s yet to come.
"With the next chapter soon to be unfolding, we’re beyond excited to share it with you!”
- Pauline Bianchi